Coin grades can affect value dramatically, and some coins may be marketed with grades that don’t reflect their true condition. For Asheville collectors or buyers, being able to identify overgraded coins helps avoid overpaying or being misled by inflated appraisals.

Signs of overgrading include:

• Wear inconsistent with the stated grade – Look for high-point wear on coins listed as “mint state.”
• Polished or altered surfaces – Unnatural shine may hide flaws and make a coin appear higher grade.
• Incorrect strike strength – A weak or uneven strike can suggest lower quality than stated.
• Mismatch between photos and description – If the grade doesn’t align with visible details, question the accuracy.
• Lack of third-party certification – Uncertified coins with high grades should be treated with caution.

In Asheville, working with an honest rare coin dealer helps confirm if a coin’s condition matches its listed grade. This is especially important when purchasing high-value pieces or building a serious collection.

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